Manufacturer: Holton
Model: E185
Condition: Used, Very good
Year: 1967
Key: Bb / F
Bore: .562"
Bell Size/Material: 9.5" Rose brass
Finish: Lacquer
Case: Yes, Original case
Oil: Yamaha (slide), Hetman (rotor)
This used 1967 Holton E185 single-valve bass trombone is an outstanding example of one of Holton’s most respected professional bass trombones, presented here in very good condition and formerly owned by John Coffey, bass trombonist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Cleveland Orchestra during the mid-20th century. It came to us via the estate of Andre Smith, a musical historian and former bass trombonist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra in NYC.
We gave this instrument a professional cleaning and a precision rotor alignment. It has nickel silver protective guards on the main tuning slide crook, neckpipe and F attachment tuning slide crook expertly installed at the Conn factory for Mr. Coffey, after which it was relacquered. About 99% of the lacquer remains intact with just some very minor wear at the contact points. There are also some minor blemishes in the bell and some scratches here and there, but overall the horn is in fantastic shape.
The .562" single bore handslide is smooth and responsive, the rotary valve operates cleanly with excellent compression, and all tuning slides function properly. The instrument plays easily and evenly throughout the full range. The E185 is widely regarded as one of the finest American bass trombones of its era, known for its rich, centered sound, excellent projection and remarkably balanced response. It has a powerful and resonant low register with clarity and stability in all registers, making it equally at home in orchestral, chamber and solo settings.
John Coffey’s ownership adds meaningful historical significance, and as a bass trombonist with both the Boston Symphony and Cleveland Orchestra, his instruments were selected and maintained for the highest level of professional orchestral performance. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a superb playing vintage bass trombone with exceptional provenance.
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